Hey Reader,

It’s been a while — more than a month actually, and I just want to say, thank you for still being here. I know inboxes get busy, and I genuinely appreciate you opening this one.

So — how was your June? For me, it was a good one. The school holidays meant a little more breathing room, and my family and I managed to get away for a bit of travel together. It’s the kind of thing I don’t take for granted — those slower mornings, a change of scenery, real conversations with my kids that don’t get squeezed out by the busyness of term time. Really good for the soul.

But here’s the thing — I didn’t just rest. I also sat down with one of my friends for what turned out to be one of the most honest and moving conversations I’ve had on this podcast. And I’ve been looking forward to sharing it with you ever since.

Let me introduce you to Guoliang.

I knew Guoliang more than 7 years ago, but found we had much in common. You see, we were both teachers around the same time (mid-2000's). He taught General Paper at the junior college level, and later moved into a role at MOE HQ. In many ways, he was doing everything right. Stable career, good trajectory, a family to care for.

And then he walked away from all of it to become a full-time pastor.

Now, before you click away — I promise this episode isn’t just for people who are thinking about ministry. Bear with me for a second.

Because here’s what struck me most about Guoliang’s story: it wasn’t a clean decision. It wasn’t a sudden flash of lightning or a voice from the sky. It was years of quiet wrestling. Self-doubt. Fear about what people would think. Fear about whether he was even good enough. Real questions about money, family, and whether he was reading the situation right.

And honestly? I found that really refreshing. Because I think most of us — whether we’re navigating a career change, a big life decision, or just trying to figure out what we’re really here for — we know that feeling. That tension between the safe path and the one that scares you a little.

So what is this episode really about?

It’s a deep dive into what it looks like to sense a calling — and actually respond to it.

We talk about how Guoliang figured out that this was more than just a passing feeling. How his community and his family played a part in the discernment. The moment that finally moved him. And the one question he now asks anyone who comes to him saying they think God might be calling them to something.

There’s something he said that’s stayed with me. He described the call not as a gentle nudge, but as a royal summons. Like, the King of the universe is asking — who will go? And something in you says: that’s me.

You don’t have to be a Christian to find that image powerful. Because I think there’s something in all of us that resonates with the idea of being called to something bigger than ourselves — something that costs us, that stretches us, and yet somehow feels like exactly what we were made for.

Here’s the link to the full interview:

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🎥 Why This Teacher Left the Classroom for the Pulpit — with Pastor Wong Guoliang​

Whether you’re seriously considering full-time ministry, or that is the last thing on your mind right now — I really think you’ll find something in this conversation for you.

If you do watch it, I’d love to hear what stood out. Just hit reply and let me know.

Stay joyful, and let’s go forth to embrace our calling.

Marcus Mok

P.S. If you found this episode helpful, would you consider sharing it with one friend who might need to hear it? Word of mouth is honestly the best way this little podcast grows — and I’m grateful for every share.

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Marcus Mok Christian. Teacher. Blogger. ​EmbraceOurCalling.com​

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